Good morning, Providence.

The Rhode Island State Crime Laboratory will face a full accreditation review the weekend of March 17 after two 2021 firearm misidentifications raised concerns—prompting the lab to hire private contractors and reduce reliance on mutual aid from other states.

The Rhode Island Seafood Festival in Providence ranked tenth among the nation’s best specialty food festivals per USA TODAY, offering fresh Atlantic seafood and local dining options.

The 15th annual event will be held at India Point Park on Sept. 6–7 with advance tickets available near Memorial Day.

Rhode Island lawmakers are debating a Freedom to Read bill to protect books on race, gender and identity in school libraries.

Supporters include educators and librarians while critics, such as Moms for Liberty, argue it limits parental rights—fueled by a local culture war.

Brown University said it would freeze hiring for all staff except for critical roles — as it faces a $46 million deficit and uncertainty from federal funding actions.

Officials noted that the hiring pause will stay in place until the end of the 2025 fiscal year to manage the school’s budget.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley must raise taxes next year to cover a $22 million gap caused by fixed costs for schools, pensions, worker raises, and health benefits.

He will ask the state to allow a tax increase above the 4% cap while the City Council reviews his budget proposal – higher property tax bills could follow.

After nearly eight months of talks, unionized airport workers at T.F.

Green approved a new three-year contract through July 2027 that gives them a five percent pay raise backdated to July 2024 and further increases in the next two years—this deal also includes a one-time $500 bonus and the ability to negotiate changes in job roles. The agreement was ratified by a 67-31 vote after a tentative deal was reached in late February.

India Point Park in Providence is getting a new waterfront plaza after five years of planning—set to open by mid-April.

The $2.1 million project, funded by federal stimulus and bond money, replaces chain-link fencing with welded wire, installs permeable pavers and custom swinging benches, and upgrades the park playground.

The 195 Redevelopment Commission chose Design Center Partners to build 150 apartments, 25 condos, & 30,000 square feet of retail space on a high profile parcel in Fox Point.

Elected officials say the project will boost the creative economy and create pedestrian-friendly areas in the city.

Love in Bloom: Create a Beautiful Sunflower Bouquet

Participate in a creative painting session where attendees can craft a sunflower bouquet while enjoying a complimentary beverage.

Brant Bjork Trio with Spirit Mother

Brant Bjork will perform live at Alchemy in Providence, featuring music from his latest projects.

Barbarian Live Performance at Alchemy

Experience the live performance of Barbarian along with Fathom Farewell, The Last King, and Devitalized at Alchemy in Providence.

Thin Lear Concert

Thin Lear will perform live at Myrtle in East Providence, offering an evening of music entertainment.

Storytime Sessions at Books On the Square

Storytime will be conducted every Wednesday and Friday at 11:00 a.m. for children and families.

Dirty Dancing in Concert

Experience the classic film 'Dirty Dancing' like never before with a live performance of its iconic soundtrack alongside a digitally remastered screening.

Melo Green Concert at Myrtle

Melo Green will perform live at Myrtle in East Providence, offering an evening of music starting at 7 PM.

Enchanted Flight Art Session

Participate in an in-studio painting session where you will create a colorful hummingbird masterpiece while enjoying a complimentary beverage.

GFree Fest: A Gluten Free Food Festival

GFree Fest is an annual festival in Providence dedicated to gluten-free products and restaurants, offering attendees a day of tasting and shopping.

Zumba Fitness with Kiki

6:30-7:30 p.m. | Roger Williams Park Gateway Center | Registration required | Get moving with a high-intensity Zumba class led by Kiki in a lively setting.